Anyone But You - 💥💥💥

Director: Will Gluck 
Writers: Will Gluck and Ilana Wolpert

Release Date: 26th December 2023

Hot Rating: 💥💥💥

Synopsis: Bea (Sydney Sweeney), a law student, meets Ben (Glen Powell), a finance worker, in a chance encounter. After a falling out, they later reconnect reluctantly when Bea's sister Halle (Hadley Robinson) gets engaged to Ben's friend Pete's (GaTa) sister Claudia (Alexandra Shipp). Forced to spend time together in Australia for the wedding, Bea and Ben initially clash but ultimately grow closer and reconcile their feelings for each other.

Review: In this cliche, but largely enjoyable romcom, director Will Gluck captures the lighting-in-a-bottle chemistry of the film's two leads, Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell. What the film lacks in plausible plot points (it’s hard to believe the duo actually "hate" each other), it makes up for in genuinely funny set pieces. Gluck cleverly stages moments where their flirtatious chemistry builds, culminating in a cathartic admission of their true feelings. From cringe-worthy plane encounters to a disastrous boat ride on the Sydney Harbour, the film executes its romantic comedy antics with aplomb. Supported by stunning Australian backdrops and a feel-good soundtrack, Anyone But You overcomes its by-the-numbers premise thanks to Sweeney and Powell's infectious chemistry. With both actors turning in equally impressive dramatic and comic roles this year, it’ll be interesting to see the next roles they take. For now, audiences can enjoy how their natural rapport upholds the romcom genre.

Image: YouTube